Cycling fans can look forward midsummer as Derbyshire hosts the Eroica Britannia festival and the Aviva Women's Tour on the weekend of June 17-19.

Published:16:45Thursday 14 April 2016

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Cycling fans can look forward to a midsummer feast of fun as two of the sport’s premier events head for the tough terrains of the Peak District.

The area will once again play host to the stylish three-day Eroica Britannia event from Friday, June 17, to Sunday, June 19—and this year, Derbyshire will also welcome stages three and four of the Aviva Women’s Tour for the very first time on June 17 and 18.

Tourism bosses are encouraging as many people as possible to make the most of the occasion, whether they prefer to watch world-class racing from the sidelines or take to the saddle themselves.

Jo Dilley, managing director of the area’s official tourist board Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We’re delighted that Eroica Britannia and the Aviva Women’s Tour will be in the Peak District and Derbyshire over the same weekend.”

“Both offer a great opportunity to come and stay in the area to experience two very different events, which are sure to have great appeal for cycling enthusiasts and people who prefer to relax and watch the action.”

The Eroica Britannia festival is a celebration of cycling heritage.

Now in its third year, the weekend will once again emphasise the Best of British with a three-day celebration of live music, vintage, shopping, food, drink, camping and cycling at Bakewell Showground.

This year’s line-up will also include a swing night of music and dance and a Last Day of the Proms event to welcome riders back from their 2016 Great British Adventure—a touring route that represents the highlight of the weekend.

The festival is expected to attract cyclists from all over the world, keen to explore the UK’s original National Park and Derbyshire’s peerless scenery on pre-1987 bikes.

Local businesses will be hoping the events are a big enough draw that visitors may extend their stay to try out the extensive local network of traffic-free trails.

Jo added: “There’s the chance to discover our superb countryside on a variety of off-road trails, suitable for all ages and abilities—and there are plenty of centres where visitors can hire a bike if they haven’t brought their own.

“It’s the perfect excuse to book a few days away and take advantage of our range of accommodation options, from ‘glamping’ and friendly B&Bs to welcoming pubs and country house or boutique hotels.”